Australians are among the highest users of new technology in the world and purchase over 2.4 million computers every year. This makes electronic waste or e-waste, including computers and accessories, a growing problem. Computers are ideal for recycling due to their large volumes, inclusion of hazardous materials, and good resource recovery potential for non-renewable resources like tin, nickel, zinc and copper.

TechCollect is a not-for-profit e-waste recycling service, representing over 60 of Australia's leading technology importers and manufacturers. TechCollect is committed to setting the standard for responsible e-waste recycling. We are proud to have TechCollect as a supporter of this page.

How to recycle Computers at work

There are some recycling companies that offer national collection services for commercial quantities of computers. To find a commercial computer recycling service for your workplace or business, visit BusinessRecycling.com.au.

About Computers in Australia

Every year Australians purchase millions of computers and related components to replace equipment superseded by faster and more powerful technologies. In 2007/08 an estimated 16.8 million computers and televisions reached the end of their useful life in Australia. In 2027/28, this figure is predicted to reach 44 million units.

Why recycle Computers?

Older style monitors contain cathode ray tube (CRT) monitors which contain lead, and computers also contain other hazardous materials that need to be disposed of responsibly.

When disposed to landfill, the materials and chemical components used to make computer equipment such as lead, mercury, cadmium and arsenic can leach into the soil and groundwater, causing harm to our environment and human populations.

What happens when Computers are recycled?

Computers and accessories that are in working order can often be refurbished with new software and some replacement parts. These repackaged computers are generally made available to low-income communities, individuals and community organisations. Electronic waste that is collected for recycling generally undergoes a manual dismantling process. The individual materials such as printed circuit boards, cabling, glass and plastics are recovered and then processed so that they can be used as raw materials to produce new products.

More information

In 2011 the Australian Government introduced a national, industry funded, recycling scheme for televisions and computers. Find out more here.